SWARTZ CREEK, MI – A second public hearing is set in Swartz Creek
to inform and hear from residents on the city council's decision to pursue a special
assessment to fund the city's police department.

The hearing is set for 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 25, at the city
council chambers, 8083 Civic Drive.

It is the second hearing scheduled in an effort to explain
the city's decision to pursue a special assessment rather than a voter-approved
property tax.

City Manager Paul Bueche says the city faces a budget
$200,000 in the red and has lost two full-time police officers due to attrition. The
special assessment is proposed to keep police services operating at a level the
council feels is necessary. City officials say it would raise 5 mills and
generate $141,000 in its first year.

Beuche said he is aware of the opposition from some
residents in regard to the city's decision.

"A lot of people want this tossed to the voters, and I
understand that," he said. "There are people on both sides of the issue."

Beuche said another public hearing will be held Monday, Dec.
9, when a final decision could be reached.

"I have no clue what direction they're going to go," Beuche
said of the council. "I suspect it's going to depend on how many people go (to
the meeting)."

Low turnout at council meetings is an "age old" problem,
Beuche said, adding that about 16 residents spoke at the first public hearing.

"We want them there," he said. "Even if they're upset, we
want to hear them."

More information on the special assessment can be found at
the city's website.